Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is Expanding!
More students are now eligible for TK!
Students born 9/2/2020 through 9/1/2021 can apply for the 2025-26 school year.
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is expanding Link to this section
What is changing? Link to this section
Starting with the 2022-23 school year, all school districts in California, including SFUSD, will be required by state law to expand their Transitional Kindergarten (TK) classrooms until all 4 year olds are eligible for TK by 2025-26. View Gov. Newsom's special video message about TK.
SFUSD will phase in this expansion over the next four years in alignment with state law. Please see the below chart for the eligibility by school year:
*Mobile users: Please scroll to see the rest of the table.
2023-24 School Year Link to this section |
2024-25 School Year Link to this section |
2025-26 School Year Link to this section |
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TK eligibility: Student turns 5 between 9/2/2023-4/2/2024 |
TK eligibility: Student turns 5 between 9/2/2024-6/2/2025 |
TK eligibility: Student turns 5 between 9/2/2025-9/1/2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions about Transitional Kindergarten (TK)
Link to this section
What does a high quality TK environment look like?
TK sets the stage for learning through inquiry, exploration, and problem solving while introducing children to grade-level content standards. The teacher and peers nurture language development through interactions and conversation. The environment promotes independence, social emotional skills, and self-regulation that are essential for a successful entry into Kindergarten.
What are the TK teacher qualifications?
TK is taught by a multiple subject credentialed teacher (elementary school credential). The Early Education Department provides support for the TK teacher through ongoing Professional Development and Coaching.
What are my options if my TK age child has special needs?
Families should identify their child’s special need(s) on the Application Form and attach formal documentation. Individual considerations will be made for these children.
What is Assembly Bill 22 (AB 22) and what does that change for my child?
Beginning in the 2022–23 school year, all Local Education Agencies will be required to expand their transitional kindergarten (TK) classrooms with the requirement to offer TK to all four-year-olds by the 2025–26 school year. SFUSD plans to phase in enrollment and eligibility in alignment with AB 22.
AB 22 also establishes the following student-teacher ratios:
- 24 students to 3 adults: with 1 credentialed teacher and 2 paraprofessionals, or teacher aides, or
- 20 students to 2 adults, with at least 1 credentialed teacher in the classroom.
Who can I contact with more questions?
Please contact the SFUSD Enrollment Center at (415) 241-6085 or the Early Education Department at (415) 379-2700 with any additional questions.
This page was last updated on October 15, 2024